Compare cheap motorcycle insurance quotes in Ontario
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All about motorcycle insurance in Ontario
Matt Hands, VP, Insurance
Like other types of auto insurance, motorcycle insurance is there to protect you financially from the various risks of operating a vehicle. In Ontario, there are a few mandatory coverages you'll need – which are the same mandatory coverages you can find on an Ontario car insurance policy. And you'll also have the option to customize your policy further for added peace of mind.
Here, we cover everything there is to know about motorcycle insurance in Ontario – understanding all the ins and outs will help you make the right decisions when shopping for coverage. When you're ready, be sure to connect with one of our licensed insurance brokers to compare all your options and secure your personalized policy.
Do you need motorcycle insurance in Ontario?
As mentioned above, you'll need motorcycle insurance to ride your bike in Ontario. Similarly to car insurance, motorcycle insurance follows the vehicle, not the rider – so you're essentially insuring the bike itself when you purchase the policy. In most cases, you'll need to show proof of coverage before you can even register your bike.
It's important to note, however, that many P&C insurance companies in Ontario won't provide coverage for M1-licensed riders. As a novice, you may want to hold off before purchasing your own bike – or you may need to shop around for an insurer that meets your needs.
Did you know?
While motorcycle season may only last for a few months in Ontario, it's a good idea to keep your coverage active for the entire year. Insurers are well aware of the short time frame for riding season, and therefore, the limited usage of your bike during the off-season is already factored into your premium.
In fact, your insurance company may rate your motorcycle seasonally, meaning that your entire annual premium will be charged between the months of March and October. This doesn't mean you'll only be paying the insurance bill during this time – most policyholders still make equal premiums for twelve months out of convenience. Instead, it means that you'll be liable for a specific amount, even if you cancel your coverage early. The table below outlines how a motorcycle insurance provider can charge you throughout the year.
In this case, if you were to cancel your policy in October, you'll essentially still owe your insurer the rest of your annual premium as you were charged the full amount between the months of March and October. And if you were to cancel the coverage in September, you would need to pay the rest of your total premium right away, with the exception of a 5% reduction.
It's also important to note that cancellations can have other implications too. Gaps in coverage can impact your insurance history, making it more difficult for you to obtain coverage again once the new season arrives. And let's not forget that your bike could still be stolen – or face any type of loss or damage – while it's parked away.
Mandatory types of motorcycle insurance in Ontario
In Ontario, a standard motorcycle insurance plan comes with four different types of coverages – here, we cover the basics of each one, so you can better understand the ins and outs of your policy.
Third-party liability
Accident benefits
Uninsured motorist
Direct compensation for property damage
Optional types of motorcycle insurance in Ontario
Aside from the mandatory coverages, you can also add optional coverages to your Ontario motorcycle insurance policy, providing you with additional peace of mind.
Collision
Comprehensive
Specified perils
All perils
Endorsements (Ontario Policy Change Forms)
Popular Ontario motorcycle insurance policy add-ons
Some insurers also offer more unique policy add-ons to meet the specific needs of certain riders. While this will differ from provider to provider, here are a few popular options you can ask your broker about when shopping for your Ontario motorcycle insurance.
Emergency roadside assistance
In the event of a roadside bike emergency, this can help cover related expenses, such as gas and jumps.
Accessories coverage
If you have custom parts that aren't covered on a standard policy, having accessories coverage can bridge the gap.
Personal effects coverage
This provides coverage for the loss and damage of your personal items, such as helmets and saddlebags.
Find your best option for Ontario motorcycle insurance today.
Looking to insure your bike for an affordable rate? We can help – connect with one of our licensed brokers to compare personalized motorcycle insurance quotes today.
How much is motorcycle insurance in Ontario?
The average cost of motorcycle insurance in Ontario ranges between $1,500 and $3,500 per year – and like auto insurance, there are many factors that go into your personal rate. Insurers like to see low-risk policyholders, so the more risk you bring, the more expensive your coverage will be. To find the exact cost you'll be paying, be sure to connect with one of our brokers and compare personalized motorcycle insurance quotes with us today.
Factors that impact your Ontario motorcycle insurance quotes
Here, we cover some of the most important factors that contribute to the cost of your motorcycle insurance. Again, insurers like to see low-risk policyholders – so the more risk you bring (and the more coverage you want), the higher your rate will be.
Age
Young riders tend to face the highest rates as statistically, they're more likely to get into an accident.
Gender
Males tend to face higher premiums than females. Again, they're statistically more likely to get into an accident.
Location
Motorists in busy cities and areas of high crime will see more expensive rates when compared to those from rural places.
Bike model
Certain bike models will be much more expensive to insure than others – this includes sports bikes and ones with a higher cc.
License class
Fully-licensed motorists (M-licensed in Ontario) will get the most affordable rates – insurers see this as a sign of less risk.
Driving record
A clean record goes a long way when it comes to your motorycle insurance rate. At-fault accidents can quickly hike up your rate.
Training & experience
Having accredited bike training can help lower your rate substantially. And the more experience you bring, the cheaper your rate will be.
Riding behaviour
If you use your bike to commute to work daily, expect to pay higher rates than an ad-hoc rider who only operates a few times each season.
Coverages & discounts
The more coverage you have, the more expensive your motorcycle insurance will be – but don't forget to ask about any discounts.
How to get the cheapest motorcycle insurance in Ontario
While insurance companies are the ones to quote you, there are still many steps you can take to ensure you're getting the best rate possible (which we cover below). For more information on this topic, be sure to read our blog: How to get cheap motorcycle insurance in Ontario.
- Shop the market
You won't know which insurer offers the most affordable rate until you take a look at all of them. Connect with our of our licensed to start the comparison process today.
- Take a riding course
Graduating from an accredited motorcycle training program can help lower your rate substantially. Insurers like to see low-risk, and this is one way to show it.
- Install anti-theft technology
It's no surprise that motorcycles are prone to theft. Taking measures to prevent this with technological advancements can help you lower your insurance rate.
- Get fully-licensed
Getting your M license can also help lower your rate substantially. Again, with a full license, it can show insurers you bring less risk as a policyholder.
- Opt for a bundle
Almost all motorcycle insurance companies offer other types of coverage – such as auto and home insurance. By bundling multiple products, you'll be eligible for a discount.
- Get a group rate
Be sure to ask about group rates. Insurers often offer discounts to those that are part of certain motorcycle clubs or professional groups (e.g. unions, alumni).
- Keep a clean record
The cheapest rates will go to those who have a clean driving histories. An at-fault accident on record can hike up your motorcycle insurance rate for a while.
- Choose the right bike
Certain bikes will be much more expensive to insure than others (e.g. sports bikes). Do your research ahead of time to make sure you're comfortable with your motorcycle's insurance implications.
Ready to secure affordable Ontario motorcycle insurance?
Compare personalized motorcycle insurance quotes with us today – your best option is just a few steps away.
The different types of motorcycle licenses in Ontario
In Ontario, there are three main categories for motorcycle licenses (M, M-L, and M-M), and each one applies to a different type of motor vehicle. Here's a brief overview of the categories, so you can better understand the licensing system and choose the one that will suit your riding needs.
M1, M2, and M license
An M1, M2, or M license is for riding full speed motorcycles in Ontario.
M license + Condition L
An M1, M2-L, or M-L license is for riding mopeds and motorized scooters in Ontario.
M license + Condition M
An M1, M2-M, or M-M license is for riding three-wheeled motorcycles in Ontario.
How to get a motorcycle license in Ontario
Once you've turned 16 years old, you can apply for your motorcycle license in Ontario. The process consists of passing an eye test and a written test. This will get you your M1 license – which is a beginner motorcycle license.
To get your full license, you then need to finish two learning levels (either M1 and M2, M1 and M2-L, or M1 and M-M), plus pass two road tests. You have five years to graduate through the entire process. Otherwise, once the five years are up, you'll need to start all over again.
With an M1 or M2 license, you're still considered a novice rider – and therefore, you'll face a few restrictions on the road. Below, we cover a brief overview of what you need to know when holding one of these classes.
M1 license in Ontario
M2 license in Ontario
M license in Ontario
Frequently asked questions on motorcycle insurance in Ontario
Why is motorcycle insurance so expensive in Ontario?
Motorcycle insurance in Ontario tends to be expensive due to the statistically high-risk factors that come with riding a bike. For instance, the high speeds along with limited bodily protection can lead to an increase in accident claims on the road. And it's also no surprise that bikes are an easy target for theft. Insurers need to protect themselves financially too, leading to higher coverage bills for all riders across the board.
What is the cheapest motorcycle insurance in Ontario?
You won't know which insurer offers the cheapest motorcycle insurance until you take a look at the entire market – connect with one of our brokers today to compare personalized quotes, so you can find the best rate for your coverage needs.
Can I get motorcycle insurance without a license in Ontario?
If you don't have a license, it's still possible to insure your bike, but you may need to shop around for an insurer who will allow this. Keep in mind, however, that you won't be able to take your bike out on the road.
Are motorcycles cheaper to insure than cars in Ontario?
In Ontario, the cost of motorcycle insurance tends to be significantly higher than the cost of car insurance. This is because riding a bike comes with more statistical risk factors than driving a car. Insurers need to protect themselves financially too, and charging higher premiums for riders is one way to do so.
Does my car insurance cover my motorcycle in Ontario?
No, cars and motorcycles are insured as two separate vehicles and therefore, require two separate policies. You may, however, be able to bundle the insurance plans for a discount under one provider.